Drugs sold near childcare centre
A MOTHER has admitted dealing drugs only metres away from a Geelong childcare centre and primary school.
Shelley Patterson appeared in custody at the Geelong Magistrates’ Court yesterday, where she pleaded guilty to charges including trafficking ice and cannabis.
The Norlane woman has been locked up since July 25, when detectives raided the home she shared with her partner and adult daughter.
Prosecutor Senior Constable Chris Capuano said Patterson’s property was located 40m from a childcare centre, while a primary school was only 100m away.
Officers from the Divisional Response Unit found a range of drug paraphernalia inside Patterson’s bedroom, including digital scales and a small quantity of ice.
Cannabis was also found in a kitchen area, while police uncovered a bat-shaped taser in the lounge, as well as seizing Patterson’s mobile phone.
Sen-Constable Capuano said it was evidence found on the phone that showed the soon-to-be grandmother was actively trafficking ice and cannabis for up to 12 days prior.
The court heard Patterson made admissions to police that she had been dealing drugs from the home.
Her defence lawyer said the motel worker was fearful of losing her job as a result of the offending.
She argued that Patterson’s trafficking was at a “low level” of seriousness given it appeared the dealing was confined to friends.
The court was told Patterson — originally from Healesville — had a history of drug use dating back to her teenage years.
She will be assessed for a corrections order before returning to court today. FROM shaping the perfect blunt bob to blending a seamless balayage, Geelong’s hairdressers are a talented bunch.
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